Bird Show in Exton features the rare and exotic

By DENNY DYROFF, For the Journal Register News Service

Friday, October 26, 2012

Philadelphia is known for its birds. There are the pigeons that roam the downtown areas in search of food. There are the Eagles, Philly’s perpetually under-achieving pro football team. And, there are the “Boo Birds” — Philly sports fans frequently exhibiting their special bird calls (boos) at Eagles’ games.

If none of these birds appeal to you, you’re not alone. If you want to be exposed to much more likeable birds, plan a visit to the Chester County Bird Club’s 24th Annual Bird Show and Mart.

The event, which will be held at 880 Springdale Drive, in Exton, is an event for bird lovers, especially those who have an interest in exotic birds.

Visitors to the show will have the opportunity to see and learn about a variety of bird species, many of which are very rare and seldom seen in pet stores. Many exhibitors are also bird breeders who have spent many years in their attempts to produce outstanding examples of different species and varieties of birds.

There will be a number of competitions in which birds compete with other birds in the same species against standards established by national bird organizations. The show features a special double competition in each category. Birds are ranked by two judges and entrants can win double points and ribbons.

Saturday’s show is authorized by the Society of Parrot Breeders and Exhibitors, the National Cockatiel Society, the African Lovebird Society and the National Finch and Softbill Society.

As always, the most popular drawing card is the large vendor exhibit area, where a complete range of bird supplies and artistry can be purchased. Bird owners can choose from a wide variety of cages, food, toys, hard-to-find breeding supplies, T-shirts, and bird-related artwork.